What is the Abortion Pill?

Although it’s referred to as a pill (singular), the abortion pill actually consists of two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone is taken first, usually in an abortion clinic. This medication cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. Without a steady supply of progesterone, the embryo stops growing. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. This medication causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo, which ends the pregnancy.

What are the Risks of Abortion?

• Uterine Perforation. Uterine perforation occurs when one of the instruments used in surgical abortion accidentally pokes a hole in the uterus[1]

• Incomplete Abortion. An abortion may not successfully remove all of the fetal tissue. This can occur in a surgical abortion or with the abortion pill. Emergency medical treatment may be required to prevent infection[1].

• Asherman Syndrome. Asherman Syndrome is a condition in which ​​scar tissue forms inside the uterus. This can occur as a result of multiple surgical abortions, making it difficult to become pregnant in the future[2].

• Negative Impact on Future Pregnancies. Studies have shown a link between surgical abortion and an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight in future pregnancies[2].

• Allergic Reaction. Although rare, it is possible to go into anaphylactic shock after taking misoprostol if you’re allergic to any ingredients in the medication[3].

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Bacteria can enter the reproductive tract during any abortion, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)[4].

Get the unbiased medical information needed to make a fully informed decision for your unplanned pregnancy at Bakersfield Pregnancy Center! We’re happy to answer all of your questions!

Get the unbiased medical information needed to make a fully informed decision for your unplanned pregnancy at Bakersfield Pregnancy Center. We’re happy to answer all of your questions.